Making homemade old-fashioned ice cream is a fun and rewarding process that results in a creamy, rich treat perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe uses simple ingredients like heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks to create a smooth custard-based ice cream. Whether you prefer it in a cone, a sundae, or as a milkshake, this homemade ice cream will remind you of simpler times and offer a deliciously nostalgic flavor.
Ice Cream Maker (Electric or Hand-Cranked) – 1 unit
Medium Saucepan: 1 unit
Whisk: 1 unit
Large Mixing Bowl – 1 unit
Fine Mesh Strainer – 1 unit
Measuring cups and spoons (1 set)
Airtight Container (for freezing, 1 unit)
Ingredients
2cups480 mL Whole Milk
1cup240 mL Heavy Cream
¾cup150 g Granulated Sugar
5large Egg Yolks
1tablespoon15 mL Pure Vanilla Extract
Pinchof Salt
Instructions
Prepare the Custard Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Slowly return the yolk mixture to the saucepan, whisking continuously.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
Chill the Custard:
Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate the custard for at least 4 hours or overnight until very cold.
Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes in an electric ice cream maker.
The ice cream should have a soft, creamy consistency when done.
Freeze the Ice Cream:
Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 2-4 hours to firm up to a scoopable consistency.
Serve:
Scoop the homemade ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy! You can also top it with your favorite toppings such as chocolate chips, sprinkles, or a cherry.
Notes
For a richer flavor: You can experiment by adding other extracts like almond or hazelnut to the custard base.
Mix-ins: Add crushed cookies, chocolate chunks, or fruit when the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency.
Egg-free alternative: You can omit the egg yolks for an eggless version of this ice cream. The result will be a slightly less creamy texture, but still delicious.
Storage: Homemade ice cream lasts for up to 2-3 weeks in an airtight container in the freezer.